Read More

Midfield

Matty Cash and Ben Osborn both looked particularly suited to the role of wing-backs, using their energy reserves to get up and down the flanks while putting in some teasing crosses.

If O’Neill does stick with a similar formation, those two did enough to take up those roles once again, though Byram could also be an option at right wing-back.

Changes may be made in the centre of the pitch, however, if the manager perhaps wants to cast his eye over others in his squad.

If that is the case, it should certainly be no reflection on Pele or Ryan Yates, who both had good games against Boro.

Ben Osborn looks to get his head to the ball for Forest.

But Claudio Yacob could consider himself unfortunate to be dropped in the first place, after impressing against Sheffield United, while the likes of Ben Watson and Adlene Guedioura will also be eager for a game.

Once again, there will be no Jack Colback, however, with the Newcastle United loanee potentially having turned out for the club for the final time due to a three-match ban.

Attack

It would be a bold call to drop Joao Carvalho after his starring role last time out. The club record signing was in exceptional form on only his second start under O’Neill, so you’d expect him to keep his place.

The attacking dynamic between the Portuguese and Joe Lolley worked well at the City Ground, with the duo given freedom to roam.

Karim Ansarifard acted as the spearhead on Easter Monday, but though he had a good game, it would be no surprise were Lewis Grabban to be back in the XI against Rangers.